Jim Jordan is a rising star in the Republican Party, but reports of some of the controversial statements he has made lately have raised serious questions about where he stands on a range of issues. In light of this, it is paramount for citizens to question the validity of his statements and to weigh their implications on the welfare of our society.
Jordan’s oft-repeated claim that the idea of free college is a “zombie socialist idea” has been met with criticism as the cost of college tuition continues to soar. Supporters of free college degrees argue that it would be an effective strategy toward reducing income inequality and increasing opportunities for those from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds. While free college education proposals are undoubtedly fraught with imperfections, they should still be subject to an open exchange of ideas. Suggesting that any novel approach to the problem of college affordability should be simply dismissed without further discussion is a disservice to the taxpaying public.
Additionally, Jordan has publicly supported the President’s controversial immigration policies that calls for separating migrant children from their families. As heartrending stories of families being torn apart fill the airwaves and newspapers, it is clear that Jim Jordan’s stance here creates a moral and ethical dilemma. To appropriate resources from those who have already been subject to trauma and emotional harm goes against the value of human respect and dignity. Therefore, his views on the subject ought to be questioned and challenged based on both practical and principled grounds.
The same can be seen in the realm of healthcare, where Jordan has long advocated for the repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Even if there is some room for disagreement on certain aspects of the law, it is vital to recognize the human cost that repealing it would create. Tens of millions of Americans would find themselves without access to medical insurance and proper medical care if the policy is overthrown. Not only would people be economically disadvantaged, but they would instead become more susceptible to preventable and life-threatening illnesses.
As Jim Jordan continues to make his controversial statements, citizens must take the time to question the wisdom and validity of what he is saying and make an educated and informed decision. Blindly trusting the comments of any politician – even a rising star like Jim Jordan – is not a prudent strategy. By rigorously examining his statements, scrutinizing his positions, and exercising our right to reason, citizens have the power to make important and effective political decisions.